Study Seeks 480 Volunteers to Test Cold Water Swimming as Mental Health Treatment

Researchers at the University of Portsmouth are recruiting 480 participants for a large-scale study to explore whether cold water swimming can effectively reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Building on earlier trials, the two-year project — Outside 2 — is being run in collaboration with Sussex Partnership NHS Trust and funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research.

The trial will take place at 15 sites across England, including Shoreham, Christchurch, Maidenhead, and Lymington. One group of participants will join an eight-week supervised swim course while continuing their current treatment. A control group will maintain their existing care before joining the swim course later.

29-04-2025